Intermittent Self Catheterisation

[katell]

Hello,

Does any one have to self catheterise? and how do you find it? Did you have teaching on it?

I am struggling.

Thanks

Katie

[Dream_in_pink]

Hi Katie, I have been self catheterising for a few years now. I was taught in hospital - the teaching wasn't amazing but I was lucky enough to talk to a gynae nurse specialist who showed me some different products, which I find much easier to use (called speedicath). I have found it gets much easier and actually it has made my life so much better as I have lost a lot of bladder sensation post surgery. It's worth trying different products and perhaps asking for support for a clinical nurse specialist - or a local continence service. Good luck and hope it helps.

Take care xx

[spammie85]

Hey I also catherterise every 3 hrs and have done for the last 2 yrs. The nurses in hosp weren't very good and didn't feel like I had enough training but my son has to be self catheterised and has done since he was born 8 yrs ago so I had the know how just obv it different on a woman. I rang the continence team and they came out and we're great also showed me lots of different products I also use the actreen mini speedicath they have a good hand grip bit on them and also are small and discreet and already lubricated . They also have a little case to put a couple in to take out and about with you so that no1 has to know that you use them. If i can help with anything else feel free to message me and good luck hope you get sorted soon.

[katell]

Thank you both for replying. They tried to teach me when I was in hospital too, but didn't get on well then either. I was put under a continence nurse, she is brilliant. I get on so well with her. She has been out quite a few times to try and help me. She dunt know what else she can do to try help me.

I am seeing the practice nurse at the doctors every Thursday and Friday to keep trying the isc with her support too.

I am really struggling with it though. Hate it. Some times I can get it in but most of the time I cant at all.

[Dream_in_pink]

Hi Katie,

So sorry you are having a frustrating time - it's a bit like learning to drive (sounds strange I know), it takes a while to get it, but once you have got it, you can do it almost without thinking. I used a mirror in the beginning but it got much easier to do it without one (once I knew where to put it). Good luck and hope you feel more comfortable with it soon - take care.